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Clinton's Wood Fern

Dryopteris x clintoniana

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Fern

Height

36 inches

Width

36 inches

Light

Partial Sun, Shade

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moist

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Perennial

Native To

North America

Toxicity

Contains compounds that can be toxic if ingested.

The Story

Plant Bio

Dryopteris x clintoniana is a hardy fern with lush, arching fronds composed of pinnate, dark green leaflets, creating an elegant, fountain-like appearance. It thrives in shaded, moist woodland settings. This hybrid fern is notable for its vigorous growth and adaptability to a range of garden conditions, making it a popular choice for shaded borders and woodland gardens.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides lush, green foliage year-round in protected zones, ideal for shaded areas.

Helps prevent soil erosion in shaded, moist gardens.

Supports native woodland ecosystems and provides habitat for insects.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

We couldn't find this plant listed online right now.

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Planting

How to Grow

Choose a shaded location with rich, moist soil.
Tuck spores or divisions into prepared soil in early spring.
Mist cuttings regularly to maintain humidity.
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Transplant mature plants during early spring or fall.
Water consistently to keep soil moist, especially in dry periods.

Pro Tip

Ensure consistent moisture and shade for best growth.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Keep soil moist 🌱
Mulch to retain moisture
Divide every few years to promote health

Don't

Avoid direct sunlight ❌
Do not let soil dry out
Over-fertilize, which can weaken fronds

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Divide
Fertilize
Mulch
Plant
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Shaded woodland gardenMoist border with fernsNaturalistic shade garden

Companion Plants

Hosta Astilbe Trillium Epimedium Ligularia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Clinton's Wood Fern questions

What zones can Clinton's Wood Fern grow in?

Clinton's Wood Fern is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Clinton's Wood Fern deer resistant?

Yes — Clinton's Wood Fern is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Clinton's Wood Fern bloom?

Clinton's Wood Fern typically blooms in early spring through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Clinton's Wood Fern need full sun?

Clinton's Wood Fern does best in part shade.